Mood boosting foods to know about

Feeling low? If you turn to food for comfort, make sure you eat the right stuff to give you a lift. Why not try these six good mood foods.

By The Good Housekeeping Health teamPublished: 22 September 2014

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Oats for breakfast

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Oats, pulses and pasta release energy slowly to keep blood sugar and mood stable and help you stay calm. US researchers found carbohydrates play a vital role in enabling the amino acid tryptophan, which is converted into the neurotransmitter serotonin, to enter the brain.

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Eat up your greens

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Greens like spinach, broccoli and Brussels sprouts are a great source of folic acid – studies show that people with low levels are more likely to feel depressed.

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Oily fish

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Oily fish contains omega 3 fatty acids that are essential for brain tissue and enabling neurotransmitters to work effectively. People with low levels are more prone to depression and low moods.

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Chicken for dinner

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Chicken, turkey, nuts and seeds are also rich in tryptophan and help to boost serotonin production.

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Chocolate cake anyone?

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Chocolate – everyone’s favourite pick-me-up – contains the stimulants caffeine and theobromine as well as phenylethylamine, which helps trigger the release of feelgood endorphins.

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Go nuts

Brazil nuts are packed with selenium, and low levels have been linked with depression, irritability and anxiety.

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